DfBB launches AEB guidance for fleets

Driving for Better Business (DfBB) has launched online guidance on advanced emergency braking systems (AEBS), in collaboration with Thatcham Research.

AEBS, also referred to as autonomous and automatic braking systems, activates the brakes when a potential collision is detected and is highly effective in stopping or minimising the severity of a crash where the driver has failed to react.

AEBS are standard on most new HGVs sold in the UK since 2015.

“There are two main types of AEBS,” said Simon Turner, campaign manager for Driving for Better Business.

“All have RADAR looking far ahead, but the more sophisticated systems also feature forward-facing cameras to provide additional input into the system to ‘see’ road markings and signs. There are, however, limitations which drivers and operators need to understand to ensure they maximise the safety benefits of this technology.

"For example, if the truck’s speed is too high, the system might not be able to bring the vehicle to full stop, but the impact should still be less severe.

"The systems are only designed to avoid collisions with vehicles directly in front of the truck so a vehicle that is partially in the truck’s path – say a broken-down car at the side of the road, half on and half off the carriageway, may not be ‘seen’ by the system. We’ve just produced a simple, short animation to explain all these points which transport managers can download and share with their drivers.”

The DfBB said drivers and operators can find out all they need to know for safe use of AEBS via the essential information, which includes a short animation, a PDF factsheet and poster for staff noticeboards.

The resources cover: system capabilities and limitations, tips for drivers, tips for transport managers and videos on AEBS on HGVs in action.

Video: a Volvo Truck in an advanced emergency braking systems demonstration

Matthew Avery, chief research strategy Officer at Thatcham Research, said: “AEBS is a crucial safety system, and we need to raise awareness of the life-saving benefits the technology can bring, not only to HGV drivers but other road users too.

"Heavy trucks contribute to a higher collision severity leading to a disproportionate number of casualties in crashes involving heavy vehicles. AEBS plays a very important role in road safety especially with the recent changes made to the highway code and the increased level of responsibility HGV drivers face in a collision.”

Roads minister Baroness Vere said: “I’m grateful to Driving for Better Business for producing this informative guidance. I would urge all HGV drivers and operators to learn more about and use this innovative technology, which could potentially be life-saving on the road.”

Download and access the AEBS essential information.